Education Secretary Sonny Angara highlighted the collective responsibility of the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., private institutions, and the Church in addressing the country’s education challenges, emphasizing the importance of hope and action in overcoming systemic gaps.
At the Caritas Philippines’ Executive Course for Leaders of the Philippine Catholic Church, Angara likened the state of Philippine education to the biblical story of the multiplication of the loaves and fish, pointing to the dedication of teachers, the engagement of communities, and the ongoing reforms as reasons for optimism.
“It is not merely a story of supplication… if we reflect on it, it is also the story of education.”
“It is not merely a story of supplication. It is a story of faith, generosity, and transformation. And if we reflect on it, it is also the story of education,” he said.
Angara reaffirmed the Department of Education’s (DepEd) commitment to systemic reforms, particularly through its 5-Point Reform Agenda, which prioritizes teacher support, student well-being, and governance improvements. He detailed plans to enhance teachers’ career growth, elevate thousands to principal positions, and provide them with support staff, allowing them to focus on teaching.
For learners, the agency is reinforcing funding and policies for school feeding programs, anti-bullying initiatives, digitalization efforts, and learning continuity during climate disruptions.
“The Alay Kapwa Community School of Fr. Tito Caluag as a model for reaching out to out-of-school youth.”
The education chief also highlighted the importance of alternative learning, citing the Alay Kapwa Community School of Fr. Tito Caluag as a model for reaching out to out-of-school youth.
He likewise recognized religious leaders for their contributions to education, including Fr. Jun Inocencio for technical-vocational training, Fr. Jerome Marquez for strengthening ALS programs, and Fr. Matthieu Dauchez for youth protection initiatives. He also lauded private ALS providers, including Church-based institutions, for expanding learning opportunities for out-of-school youth.
Ending on a hopeful note, Angara called for sustained collaboration between the government and civil society to advance inclusive and values-based education.
“The work of education cannot rest on the government alone. It must be a shared mission. The Church, private institutions, and civil society must stand as partners,” he said.
“By being a voice for the voiceless—whether they are out-of-school youth, abused children, or those trapped in cycles of poverty—you [the Church] amplify our shared mission,” he added.
